doldrums — a state of inactivity or stagnation
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a state of inactivity or stagnation
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdoʊldrəmz/
Example Sentences
- My motivation has been in the doldrums since I binge-watched 47 episodes of my favorite drama.
- The stock market emerged from the doldrums after positive news.
- His career was in the doldrums until he discovered his talent for making people laugh with dad jokes.
doldrums
NOUN[/ˈdoʊldrəmz/]
a state of inactivity or stagnation

Sailors sit motionless as their ship stalls in the doldrums, sails hanging limp.

Silent drums collect dust and crumbs in the doldrums!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From 18th-century 'doldrum' meaning 'dull' or 'sluggish.' Originally a nautical term for the windless equatorial ocean region where sailing ships would become stranded, later extended metaphorically to mean any period of stagnation or depression.
Breakdown
dol- (variant of 'dull') + -drum (possibly from 'tantrum,' suggesting a dull, listless state)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My motivation has been in the doldrums since I binge-watched 47 episodes of my favorite drama.”
“The stock market emerged from the doldrums after positive news.”
“His career was in the doldrums until he discovered his talent for making people laugh with dad jokes.”
“The team's performance has been in the doldrums this season.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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